Response Rates

We recommend that you aim for a 50% response rate. This is adequate for most Fresno State classes to produce reliable student ratings scores.

For those who want more detail, a statistically reliable score depends a bit on the size of the class. Smaller classes need more than 50%, and large classes can get away with less. This is based on a widely-used statistical analysis (Nulty, 2008) of the reliability of student ratings data. Required response rates for classes of different sizes:

• Class size of 10 needs 75%
• Class size of 20 needs 58%
• Class size of 30 needs 48%
• Class size of 40 needs 40%
• Class size of 50 needs 35%
• Class size of 100 needs 21% 
• Class size of 150 needs 15%  

4 Ways to improve completion ratio of student ratings

1. Provide Protected Time
Best way to improve completion rate is to provide protected class time.

2. Create a Climate of Mutual Respect
Let students know their responses make a difference.

3. Remind Students
Throughout the semester remind students to complete their Student Ratings questionnaire.

4. Utility of Feedback
Tell students why their feedback is useful and the importance of having a voice in their education.

How to increase response rates in your classes

• If you have face-to-face or synchronous virtual class meetings, provide protected time during class for students to complete the surveys. This is the most effective strategy.  It is currently required by policy. Time (15 minutes) must be offered at the beginning of the class meeting. 
• Include student ratings in your syllabus, and designated (in the syllabus) the date on which you expect to give students time in class to complete them. 
• Tell your students how you have changed your teaching already based on the feedback you've received in the past. This shows them that you will listen to their feedback. 
• If your online/virtual class is totally asynchronous, prompt your students to complete student ratings before the deadline you established. Help them find the ratings so they know where to go to find them. 
• The Canvas "Course Ratings" link does not work some students in cross-listed Canvas courses. Consider posting a link to Exlorance or a link to this website for them in the course as well, along with a message encouraging participation.  
• Convey to students that you WANT them to complete these surveys. Explain what information you want from them, and how you intend to use it to improve your teaching. When they know that you sincerely want to hear from them, and when they have an idea how their feedback will be used, they will take the time to do this. When students do not complete student ratings, it’s primarily because they think it’s a waste of their time. Convince them that it is not.
• Monitor response rates in your classes, and tell students that you are tracking this. Offer some reminders if necessary to encourage them.